2007 Los Angeles Auto Show Event Coverage & Photos!

The year of the SUV Hybrid

The Los Angeles Auto Show came to prominence last year when it emerged from the shadow of the mammoth Detroit Auto Show by moving to November from its previous mid-January slot and received the "International" designation from the OICA for the first time since it's inception in 1907.

Los Angeles, well known for its wealth, is showing another shade of green at the Los Angeles Auto Show. "Green" vehicles are, excuse the pun, changing landscape. From the new Chevrolet Two-Mode Hybrid to the Porsche Cayenne Hybrid concept, the push for alternate fuel vehicles is playing out across the display floor of the L.A. Auto Show.

Over a dozen concept and production vehicles are expected to make their global debuts at this year's LA Show alongside some 30 vehicles making their first appearance on North American shores.

Chevrolet fuel cell electric vehicles are hitting the streets and driveways of Los Angeles, New York City and Washington D.C., in the largest market test ever of its kind.

Customers in suburban Los Angeles, New York City and Washington, D.C. will drive more than 100 Chevrolet Equinox Fuel Cell electric vehicles as part of a comprehensive deployment plan dubbed "Project Driveway." It constitutes the first large-scale market test of fuel cell electric vehicles anywhere.

A variety of drivers - from regular families to celebrities - will have free use of an Equinox Fuel Cell electric vehicle and the hydrogen fuel it needs to make electricity onboard. The average family will get one of the vehicles for three months and be required to report their experience to Chevrolet.

"These families volunteered to be part of something big," said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. "Like Chevrolet, they care about the environment, and they want to help solve our nation's energy issues. They are pioneers, and we are pleased they have joined our team.

"Drivers will provide regular, candid feedback about their use of the vehicle in their daily lives, the vehicle's performance and their personal preferences, which is key in defining our product and market introduction plans for fuel cell electric vehicles."

General Motors Corp. will apply what it learns to the advancement of electric drive vehicles. One example is the Chevrolet Volt with GM's E-Flex System. The "E" stands for electricity; the "Flex" for the many ways to make and store electricity on board. These technologies reduce emissions, lessen the country's dependence on oil and move toward sources of energy that can be replenished or renewed - wind, solar, plants, geysers, waves or even garbage.

"What we learn will directly influence future electrically driven vehicle generations and ultimate market acceptance," said Dan Hancock, GM Powertrain vice president, global engineering. "With Project Driveway, GM is demonstrating its commitment to electrically driven vehicles - whether the source of the electricity comes from a lithium-ion battery or a hydrogen fuel cell - as the answer for helping take the automobile out of the environmental debate and reducing our dependence on petroleum. The Equinox Fuel Cell electric vehicle demonstrates an important milestone on our pathway to electrically driven vehicle development."

Enabled by GM's fourth-generation fuel cell propulsion system, the Equinox Fuel Cell electric vehicle is a fully functional crossover vehicle. It is expected to meet all applicable 2007 U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, and is equipped with a long list of standard safety features including driver and passenger frontal air bags and roof rail side-impact air bags; anti-lock braking system (ABS); StabiliTrak stability enhancement technology and OnStar.

Cadillac announced the introduction of the 2008 Escalade Platinum, a special edition of the segment-leading large luxury SUV that takes Cadillac's dramatic design, elegance and technology to its fullest expression.

Making its world premiere alongside the upcoming Escalade Hybrid, Cadillac announced the Platinum edition will come to market in the spring of 2008 as the most luxurious model in the Escalade lineup. It rounds out a full series of Cadillac Platinum models, including the XLR Roadster, DTS luxury sedan and STS performance sedan. Each model in the Platinum lineup is characterized by elegant cabins featuring handcrafted leather, advanced technology and unique design details throughout.

"The new Platinum edition elevates and extends Escalade's position as the large SUV of choice among luxury consumers," said Jim Taylor, Cadillac general manager. "The growing Platinum series highlights the handcrafted details and technical sophistication of Cadillac's overall product renaissance."

Advanced technologiesOffered on Escalade and the extended-length Escalade ESV, the Platinum edition includes a blend of technical innovations and aesthetic enhancements. Escalade Platinum will be the world's first SUV to be equipped with Cadillac's advanced Magnetic Ride Control (MRC) technology.

Magnetic Ride Control, originally developed for performance vehicles such as the STS sedan, XLR Roadster and Chevrolet's legendary Corvette, is the world's fastest reacting suspension system and gives the Escalade Platinum more precise body motion control. It is a real-time damping system - "reading" the road in 1-milisecond intervals - that replaces conventional mechanical-valve shocks with electronically controlled shocks filled with a synthetic fluid containing minute iron particles. Under the presence of magnetic charge, the iron particles align to provide damping resistance almost instantly.

Segment-first, innovative LED headlampsEscalade Platinum will be the first SUV - and one of the first vehicles of any kind - to offer Light Emitting Diode (LED) headlamps. Used previously only on concept vehicles or exotic sports cars, LED headlamps mark another step in Cadillac's application of advanced lighting technology and design.

LED headlamps emit a greatly more precise light pattern, while emulating the characteristics of natural daylight much more closely than traditional auto lighting. LEDs are environmentally friendly, using much less power and lasting more than 20 times longer than traditional halogen bulbs. LED headlamps will be an enhancement added to the Escalade Platinum in the summer of 2008, shortly after the start of production of the Platinum model itself in the spring of 2008.

"Escalade is world renown for making a distinctive design statement," Taylor said, "With the introduction of the world's first large luxury SUV hybrid as well as the new Platinum edition, Cadillac Escalade is now bringing some of the world's most sophisticated automotive technologies into the luxury SUV category."

The cabin is the latest example of Cadillac's 21 st-century return to handcrafted luxury details. The instrument panel, center storage console and door trim are wrapped and stitched by hand. They feature decorative French seams that convey an elegantly tailored look and feel. Materials include rich leather on the instrument panel, with unique wood inlays and aluminum trim.

Aniline leather is unique to the Escalade Platinum and is used to trim the first- and second-row seats. Contrasting-color stitching is used on the French seams for a distinctive, luxurious appearance and the seatbacks feature embroidered Cadillac wreath and crest insignias. The leather-covered seats are comfortable and convenient, with the industry-exclusive power fold-and-tumble second-row seat feature that eases access to the third-row seat.

Additional standard interior features include Platinum-specific door sills and floor mats, a heated steering wheel and heated and cooled cup holders and a power liftgate that opens and closes with the touch of a button.

Also, the DVD entertainment system adds screens integrated into each front seat headrest, in addition to the existing roof mounted screen. Each front-row headrest screen has its own driver and input controls. The headrest units can be operated independently or in tandem. This system enables passengers in different seats to watch or listen to different entertainment choices, while leaving ultimate control with the driver. Escalade Platinum models will include the acclaimed Bose 5.1 Digital Surround system, as well as the eight-inch touch screen for DVD-based navigation and control of the DVD, CD, MP3 and XM Satellite radio entertainment.

Plentiful powerPlatinum models are powered by the Escalade's exclusive 6.2L V-8 rated at 403 horsepower (301 kW)* and 417 lb.-ft. of torque (565 Nm).* It is an all-aluminum engine that uses v ariable valve timing (VVT) to optimize camshaft timing to improve low-rpm torque and high-rpm horsepower. The introduction of variable valve timing through the unique, dual-equal cam phaser is the industry's first application of VVT on a mass-produced V-8 overhead-valve engine.

A Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission is matched with the 6.2L engine. One of the industry's most advanced automatics, the 6L80 features clutch-to-clutch shifting and has a wide, 6.04:1 overall ratio - including two overdrive gears - that helps deliver an excellent balance of performance and fuel economy.

The 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe already boasts best-in-class fuel economy. Now, Chevy takes another leap forward with the Tahoe 2-Mode Hybrid. It features the world's first production 2-Mode full hybrid propulsion system, which on the 2WD model offers 50-percent better EPA city fuel economy than its gasoline-only sibling and 30-percent better combined city-highway fuel economy. Better still, the fuel-saving advantages of the Tahoe Hybrid are balanced with a superior driving experience and uncompromised capability.

"The Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid combines the functionality and comfort of a full-size SUV with a Vortec V-8-based full-hybrid system that provides city fuel economy comparable to that of a four-cylinder midsize car," said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. "The Tahoe Hybrid is an example of Chevrolet's commitment to offer fuel solutions in all of our segments with technologies that add value without subtracting capability or capacity."

The 2WD Tahoe Hybrid delivers 21 mpg in the city, a 50-percent improvement over its 5.3L non-hybrid sibling. It matches the city fuel economy of the much-smaller 2008 2.4L-equipped Toyota Camry midsize sedan, according to figures obtained from www.fueleconomy.gov. The fuel savings are equally impressive on the 4WD Tahoe Hybrid, rated at 20 mpg in both city and highway driving.

All Tahoe models are built on GM's full-size SUV platform, which incorporates features such as a fully boxed frame, coil-over-shock front suspension, rack-and-pinion steering and a premium interior that bolsters the vehicle's comfort, quality and capability. Wide front and rear tracks enhance handling and lower the center of gravity for a more confident road feel.

The Tahoe Hybrid was designed with safety in mind. It delivers a 360-degree safety system of occupant protection and crash-avoidance technology, with features such as standard StabiliTrak stability control system with rollover mitigation technology. For 2008, the long list of standard safety features is enhanced with the addition of head-curtain side impact air bags on all models.

Tahoe Hybrid powertrainThe Tahoe Hybrid features patented hybrid technology with two modes optimized for city and highway driving. In the first mode, at low speed and light loads, the vehicle can operate in three ways: electric power only, engine power only or in any combination of engine and electric power. When the vehicle is operated with electric power only, the engine is shut off for extended periods of time. Moving under electric power at low speeds is key to reducing fuel consumption in heavy stop-and-go traffic.

The second mode is used primarily at highway speeds. In addition to electric assist, the second mode provides full eight-cylinder engine power when conditions demand it, such as when passing, pulling a trailer or climbing a steep grade. The second mode integrates sophisticated electronic controls, such as Active Fuel Management, cam phasing and late-intake valve closure, allowing even more efficient engine operation. It extends the AFM bandwidth to allow longer and more consistent periods of AFM use.

The 2-Mode system innovations allow for more efficient packaging because its compact and powerful electric motors are designed to fit within the approximate space of a conventional automatic transmission - an efficiency advantage compared with today's typical single-mode systems that rely on much larger electric motors.

A sophisticated controller determines when the vehicle should operate in either mode of the hybrid system. Input from the controller determines the necessary torque for the driving conditions and sends a corresponding command to the engine and electric motors. The engine and electric motors transfer torque to a series of gears in the transmission, which multiply torque similar to a conventional automatic transmission to propel the vehicle.

Unlike conventional continuously variable transmissions, however, the 2-Mode full hybrid's electrically controlled system uses no mechanical belts or bands. Shifts between the two modes are synchronous, which means no engine speed changes are necessary for the mode shift to occur, resulting in ultra-smooth accelerations.

The 300-volt Energy Storage System (ESS) provides electric power for the system, and while it is larger than a typical automotive battery, it is designed to fit in the vehicle without compromising passenger space. Special converters located under the vehicle's hood convert the motors' AC output to DC current and power conventional 12-volt accessories, such as interior lighting, climate control and the radio. The vehicle's internal combustion engine and regenerative braking system provide power to charge the Energy Storage System so the vehicle doesn't have to be plugged in to keep the system charged.

Because the architecture can be scaled to fit multiple vehicles and adapted to gasoline or diesel engines, the 2-Mode full hybrid can be applied globally. In Europe, for example, where diesel engines are common in passenger vehicles, it can provide a significant reduction in fuel consumption, which would help automakers meet the region's ever-stringent carbon dioxide emissions standard.

Aerodynamic enhancementsThe Tahoe Hybrid has a look that is as distinctive as its unique powertrain; it is 10 mm lower in the front and has additional aerodynamic features compared to gasoline-only models. The hood and liftgate are made of aluminum to trim weight, and the leading edges of the hood have been streamlined.

The Tahoe Hybrid retains Chevy's trademark grille with Chevy bowtie, but with a larger intake to accommodate the hybrid powertrain's higher airflow requirement for cooling. The fascias are tuned at the corners and air dam, and the running boards are flared in front in an effort to guide airflow around the wheel openings. There's no overlooking the fact that this SUV is a hybrid, with badging on the C-pillars and rear liftgate. Additionally, Hybrid decals are located on both the upper portions of the front windshield as well as the rear liftgate glass.

Other aerodynamic refinements include sharpening of the D-pillar rearward, including the taillamps, a CHMSL appliqu detail spoiler over the rear hatch and a closeout panel under the back of the vehicle to facilitate airflow and reduce drag.

Lightweight, aero-efficient wheels with the lowest rolling-resistance tires available for full-size trucks further trim fuel use, and are complemented with a tuned ride to provide the ride and handling, performance and attention to detail that customers expect from a totally integrated vehicle.

Two-wheel-drive Tahoe and Yukon Hybrid models deliver EPA fuel economy of 21 mpg in the city, a 50-percent improvement over their 5.3L gasoline-only siblings and comparable to the city fuel economy of the much-smaller 2008 2.4L-equipped Toyota Camry sedan, according to figures obtained from www.fueleconomy.gov. EPA highway fuel economy is 22 mpg. The fuel savings is impressive on 4WD models, too, with the Tahoe and Yukon Hybrids rated at 20 mpg in both city and highway driving. This gives the Tahoe and Yukon Hybrids a driving range of about 525 miles per tank of fuel, or enough for a trip from San Diego to San Francisco.

Making this possible is GM's all-new, advanced electrically variable transmission and 300-volt nickel-metal hydride Energy Storage System (ESS), which work in concert with the standard 6.0L V-8 gasoline engine with Active Fuel Management (AFM) and late-intake valve closing (LIVC) technology. GM's new 2-Mode Hybrid system enables the Tahoe and Yukon to launch and drive up to 30 mph on electricity alone and allows the 6.0L V-8 engine to operate in its more economical V-4 mode for longer periods. The Tahoe and Yukon Hybrids also save fuel with aerodynamic aids and reduced-mass components.

From subtle interior touches to functional exterior aerodynamic details, the Tahoe and Yukon Hybrid stand apart from the crowd. Once in the driver's seat it is instantly clear that these vehicles are special -- from the unique gauge clusters with distinctive badging to the special tachometer. Even the stylish thin-profile seats, designed to reduce mass for improved fuel savings, also provide a side benefit of increased second-row leg room.

On the outside, form follows function with numerous aerodynamic features such as a lowered air dam, shaped running boards and special rear-end treatments. They enhance the vehicles' overall appearance and contribute to their 0.34 drag coefficient. Noise-reduction measures include a new exhaust system and resonator; low-rolling resistance tires; additional engine intake induction tuning; an electrically driven, 300-volt air conditioning compressor and 42-volt variable-assist power steering; and tuning to the Energy Storage System cooling system internal fan.

Like the Tundra, the Sequoia is vastly improved and should grab a larger share of its shrinking segment. The Tundra's aluminum 5.7-liter V-8 is optional on SR5 and Limited and standard on the new Lexus-like Platinum. The old 4.7 iron block remains the base engine until a new smaller V-8 derivative of the 5.7 is ready.

The Tundra's cheesy familiar dash makes it into the Sequoia, but the SUV gets an independent rear suspension for third-row seating (with optional electric fold-down) good enough for average-size adults on short trips. There's a false floor under the flat-folding second and third rows. The Sequoia feels smaller than the Tundra, and that it is, except in its fuel economy. That's where bad timing can really hurt.

Volvo embarks on a bold new road for 2008 with the introduction of the third generation V70. Building upon 54 years of continuous wagon refinement and improvement the all-new V70 raises the bar in Volvo's global leadership of the premium wagon sector. The debut marks world breakthroughs in safety, an advanced new 6-cylinder engine, more dynamic style and luxury, improved driving dynamics and increased utility and versatility.

"In developing the all-new V70 we aimed to produce the safest car in its segment," says Ingrid Skogsmo, Director of Volvo Cars Safety Center." The V70 is comprised of a sophisticated network of interacting safety systems, highly efficient energy absorption and the latest generation of side airbags and whiplash protection. To improve safety for children in the rear seat, Volvo combines a new standard height-adjustable integrated booster cushion - a world first - with an extended inflatable curtain and power child locks. This combination provides the industry's best passenger safety system for children of different sizes. The V70's new, stronger side structure uses high-tensile steel of different grades to optimize side-impact protection.

Among the list of standard safety features is the next generation Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS), Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and enhanced impact protection for pedestrians and cyclists. New options available for the first time on the V70 include adaptive cruise control with collision warning and with Auto Brake, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), and Personal Car Communicator (PCC) with Keyless Drive, two-way car communication and heartbeat sensor.

Employing completely new vehicle architecture the V70 shares major components and systems with the flagship S80 and equally new XC70. This represents a significant change from the previous V70, which was related to the Volvo S60. The platform change has enabled Volvo's engineers to instill new levels of power and refinement for a rewarding driving experience.

A remarkably refined and responsive 6-cylinder engine powers the V70 for the first time. This 3.2-liter normally aspirated transversely mounted powerplant develops 235 horsepower and 236 lb.-ft. of torque. Its advanced valve mechanism CPS (Cam Profile Switching) plus VIS (Variable Intake System) enable it to deliver the best of all worlds - performance, driving comfort and fuel economy. A new six-speed "Geartronic" automatic transmission enables the driver to shift manually when desired.

While the new V70 is instantly recognizable as a Volvo, designers take it to the next level with a more athletic stance and sporty attitude. The front fascia wears a wide egg-crate grille emblazoned with Volvo's signature Ironmark. A climbing waistline contributes to the dynamic posture. Viewed from the rear, the new tailgate makes a strong visual link with the new C30. All the lights above the waistline are LED. Another smart detail is rear glass that extends further down the tailgate for increased visibility.

Scandinavian style throughout the cabin combines clean design, intelligent functionality and exceptional comfort and luxury. The driver and front passenger are treated to "ortho-posture" supportive bucket seats. Instruments are ergonomically designed including an elegant, super-slim center stack. Rear seats split 40/20/40 offering the flexibility of seating for three or two outboard passengers separated by a wide armrest.

The cargo floor is fitted with aluminum rails and movable anchorage points which fold away when not in use. Side panels also have built-in load anchorage eyelets to keep luggage securely in place. A lockable storage area under the floor is standard for increased security of smaller items. For added convenience in loading and unloading cargo, the V70 offers a new power tailgate.

While the V70 comes well equipped with an extensive repertoire of luxury and comfort features, customers can further tailor the newest Volvo to meet their needs with a variety of options and packages. The list includes the Volvo Navigation System with HDD, DVD map data and remote control, a dual screen rear seat entertainment system, 17-inch "Spartes" alloy wheels, a high performance sound system, rear seat headphone jacks and Sirius Satellite Radio.

Cadillac announced the world premiere of the Escalade Hybrid, the world's first fuel-saving hybrid applied to a large luxury SUV. Powered by an innovative, fuel-saving 2-Mode Hybrid system, Escalade Hybrid will deliver more than a 50-percent improvement in fuel economy in city driving - all while delivering the same distinctive style, segment-leading features and full-size capability that have made the Escalade an icon.

" Escalade, already the sales and style leader among large luxury SUVs, now adds the desirability of a fuel-saving, technically advanced hybrid system," said Jim Taylor, Cadillac general manager. "The arrival of Escalade Hybrid means that consumers can now use less fossil fuel, reduce emissions and still enjoy the benefits of a full-size luxury SUV."

The Hybrid goes on sale in the summer of 2008 and is the newest example of Escalade's technology leadership.

"No other manufacturer offers a hybrid than can seat eight luxuriously while simultaneously carrying or trailering lots of cargo comfortably," Taylor said. "And no hybrid delivers the dramatic presence that is synonymous with Escalade."

Escalade Hybrid is available in 2WD and 4WD configurations. It delivers up to 6,000 pounds (2,721 kg) of usable towing capacity on 2WD models and 5,700 pounds (2,585 kg) on 4WD models. All of Escalade's standard comfort and convenience features are included. This includes an eight-inch, touch-screen navigation system that displays performance readouts of the 2-Mode Hybrid system on the screen.

Escalade Hybrid extends Cadillac's leadership in the large luxury SUV category. Escalade sales have grown in the face of changing sales trends and increased competition. In fact, Escalade sales increased 22 percent in September over year-ago sales. Other models in the Escalade lineup include the extended-length Escalade ESV and the versatile Escalade EXT luxury-utility truck. The Hybrid model is available with the standard Escalade body style.

Patented 2-Mode Hybrid technologyThe Escalade's 2-Mode Hybrid system allows it to return exceptional fuel economy in both city and highway while delivering the capabilities of a true luxury SUV. In city driving, this advanced hybrid power system enables Escalade to launch and drive low speeds on electricity alone. As additional power is demanded, the system blends output from the battery and gas engine smoothly.

GM's patented 2-Mode Hybrid system consists of an advanced electrically variable transmission (EVT) and 300-volt nickel-metal hydride Energy Storage System (ESS). These systems work in concert with the standard 6.0L V-8 Gen IV gasoline engine with Active Fuel Management (AFM) and late-intake valve closing (LIVC) technology. AFM enables the V-8 engine to seamlessly shut off half of its cylinders when less power is needed, such as during highway cruising. This new hybrid system not only enables the Escalade Hybrid to drive low speeds on electricity alone, it also allows the 6.0L V-8 engine to operate in its more economical four-cylinder mode for longer periods.

The key to Escalade's 2-Mode hybrid system is that the electric power used to propel the vehicle is generated by the hybrid system itself. When the brakes are applied or the vehicle is coasting, the electric motors within the hybrid system create electricity that is stored in the 300-volt battery. This stored energy is used to move the vehicle and the regenerative braking cycle is renewed.

The 2-Mode Hybrid system provides seamless, dependable power on demand in an efficient package. In fact, its electric motor is less than half the size of those in single-mode hybrid systems. This technology was developed and is still used in fleets of hybrid transit buses on the streets today in dozens of major North American cities. Scaled-down for use in full-size SUVs, the 2-Mode system delivers fuel savings where it is needed most - in large vehicles with high levels of capability. It is a core part of GM's energy diversity efforts, which are centered on reducing dependence on petroleum, improving fuel economy, reducing emissions and minimizing the automobile's impact on the environment.

Cadillac's smooth and quiet powerAcoustic details specific to the Hybrid model ensure it delivers the superior luxury that has been an Escalade hallmark since its inception. The details include:

• A new exhaust system and resonator specially tuned for the 6.0L LIVC engine's Active Fuel Management operation. It ensures comfortable interior acoustics and a pleasant exhaust note during both V-4 and V-8 operation

• An electrically driven, 300-volt air conditioning compressor reduces vibration and allows the HVAC system to cool the passenger compartment even when the gasoline engine is shut off. It includes the standard tri-zone climate system

• An electrically driven, 42-volt variable-assist power steering reduces vibration and provides up to a 0.5-mpg fuel economy improvement by reducing parasitic losses common in belt-driven hydraulic systems

• The Energy Storage System cooling system's internal fan is tuned to be quiet at low vehicle speeds, when the fan could more easily be heard by the occupants.

Affirming its commitment to fuel solutions and truck leadership, Chevrolet announced the 2009 Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid, a full-size pickup that achieves 40-percent greater city fuel economy and a 25-percent improvement in overall fuel economy. It is expected to be the most fuel-efficient full-size pickup on the market, besting the current V-8 leader - the non-hybrid Silverado.

Partnering General Motors' patented 2-Mode Hybrid system and a powerful 6.0L gas V-8, the Silverado Hybrid delivers highly efficient performance while maintaining full-size pickup capability. The hybrid system provides all-electric driving at low speeds, allowing fuel savings to be realized even when the truck is fully loaded or towing a trailer. Silverado Hybrid can tow up to 6,100 pounds (2,767 kg).

"The Silverado Hybrid is the newest example of Chevy's heritage of truck innovation, which stretches back 90 years, and exemplifies Chevrolet's commitment to fuel solutions," said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. "Silverado Hybrid will deliver fuel economy comparable to many small and midsize trucks that are equipped with four- or six-cylinder engines - all while delivering the capability customers expect of Chevy full-size trucks."

The Silverado Hybrid goes on sale in late 2008 and is based on the award-winning Silverado platform that was introduced for the 2007 model year. It will be offered in the Crew Cab body style; 2WD and 4WD models. Each model features Silverado's "Pure Pickup" trim and comes standard with several popular features, including StabiliTrak electronic stability control system, a locking rear axle and a trailering package.

"Silverado has one of the broadest and deepest lineups of models, configurations and capabilities," said Peper. "The Silverado Hybrid adds to the breadth and depth of offerings, while carrying the core elements that make Silverado one of the most well-equipped and safest trucks in the market."

Silverado offers dual-stage frontal air bags and head curtain side air bags; and is the only full-size truck with five-star side impact ratings in federal crash tests.

Chrysler Aspen is a premium SUV that offers elegant styling, premium amenities and innovative engineering with the room and capability of a sport-utility vehicle. Bigger than its full-size SUV competitors, yet smaller than large SUV competitors, Chrysler Aspen offers unique benefits as a luxury SUV in a class all its own.

Chrysler Aspen exudes styling elegance, with clean, angular front and rear fenders, rear doors and rear-quarter panels creating a seamless profile. Individual chromed "Chrysler" lettering adorns the bodyside on each of the front doors. Premium touches also include chromed accents on bodyside moldings, door handles, side mirrors and roof rack, as well as 18-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels. Chrysler Aspen's broad, chromed grille is crowned by a sculpted hood, a signature of Chrysler vehicles.

In the rear is a unique suspension setup with coil springs and a solid rear axle that delivers durability and strength. A Watt's linkage system is fitted to the rear axle, centering the axle and reducing rear-end skate over rough surfaces.

The Dodge Durango's styling is enhanced with a high beltline emphasizing its bold appearance, while short front and rear overhangs contribute to the vehicle's expression of concentrated power. Crisp angles and chiseled surfaces highlight a strong and confident front-end design. The Durango's signature crosshair grille stands out prominently, flanked by rectangular headlamps with dual-halogen bulbs wrapped around the corners of the fenders. The rear design of the Dodge Durango is marked by "afterburner" taillamps, and a chrome appliqu accentuating the rear liftgate.

Dodge designers and engineers have answered the needs of the global passenger car market, as well as the needs of individual drivers, and delivered the all-new Dodge Journey: a global vehicle that meets life's changing demands by offering a unique combination of versatility and flexibility in a sporty, sexy package. This all-new vehicle takes the practicality of a minivan, the capability of a sport-utility vehicle (SUV) and the overall efficiency of a passenger car and blends all the best attributes of each into an all-new "right-sized" crossover for the Dodge brand.

"The all-new Dodge Journey gives our customers the entire package," said Michael Manley, Executive Vice President - International Sales, Marketing and Business Development, Chrysler. "With its unique combination of purposeful versatility and bold, youthful styling, this new vehicle from Dodge delivers safety, quality and reliability at a great value. Journey also blends innovative technology, entertainment features and useful storage, all wrapped together with an attitude that can only be Dodge."

The Dodge Journey is built on the company's global D-segment platform and is designed to meet the needs of customers ranging from young singles, couples and families with small children to mature families who want the flexibility to do more in terms of seating people or storing gear. Clever, flexible seating and storage combinations include standard five-passenger seating with spacious cargo room and available 5+2 seating, for times when additional passengers are along on the journey. Spacious storage bins, hidden in the floor and under the front passenger seat cushion, combined with a variety of fuel-efficient and powerful powertrain options, make Dodge Journey flexible, functional and fun-to-drive.

Safety also is at the top of mind for customers, and the Dodge Journey delivers with standard multi-stage front driver and passenger air bags, front-seat-mounted side air bags, three-row side-curtain air bags, standard four-wheel disc anti-lock brakes (ABS), standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP), standard Electronic Roll Mitigation, an available back-up camera and available all-wheel drive (AWD) in the United States and Canada.

The 2009 model-year Dodge Journey will be available in U.S. dealerships with both five-passenger and available 5+2 seating in SE, SXT and R/T models in the first quarter of 2008 and in global volume markets outside North America in both left-hand and right-hand drive, starting in mid-2008.

The all-new 2009 Nissan Murano crossover SUV, which goes on sale in early 2008, offers dramatic new exterior styling, a redesigned premium interior and enhanced performance and ride comfort. It will be available in 2WD and 4WD models, each equipped with Nissan's award-winning V6 engine and CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) and comes with an array of available advanced technologies including a hard-drive Navigation System with real-time traffic, RearView Monitor, Intelligent Key and more.

The all-new 2009 Pontiac Vibe is a modern re-mix of a classic hit, infusing the functionality of a compact crossover with a bolder attitude of muscular styling, increased performance and tight handling. It arrives in dealer showrooms in early 2008.

Adding a richer harmony to the tune, the popular all-wheel-drive and GT models return to the Vibe lineup. Regardless of the model, each Vibe offers a level of athletic design, boosted performance and everyday versatility uncommon in the price range.

"With the 2009 Vibe, we knew we wanted to take everything we liked about the original and push it to the next level - more power, more style, more versatility," said Craig Bierley, Pontiac marketing director. "It has the interior room and cargo capability expected of a larger SUV, but with the precise handling characteristics you would expect from any Pontiac."

The Porsche Cayenne Hybrid, to be launched at the end of the decade, will cut fuel consumption about 15 percent while retaining its driving dynamics. The full-hybrid system, which will use a gasoline internal-combustion engine and an electric motor that will operate independently or jointly, is being developed with Volkswagen Group,